Mc & Sons

In a city where traditional Irish pubs are as common as black cabs, Mc & Sons in London's Vauxhall neighborhood pulls off something truly remarkable - it's managed to create a perfect marriage between hearty Irish hospitality and authentic Thai cuisine. And somehow, against all odds, this unexpected fusion doesn't just work - it absolutely sings.

Housed in what was once The Royal Oak (a Victorian-era pub built in 1891), Mc & Sons has maintained the soul of a proper Irish boozer while adding its own distinctive flair. The moment you step through the door, you're greeted by that unmistakable pub warmth - all dark wood, vintage photographs, and the kind of lived-in comfort that makes you want to settle in for the evening. But then your nose catches something unexpected - the aromatic dance of lemongrass and Thai basil wafting from the kitchen.

The narrow, elongated space tells stories in every corner. Family photos of the Mc & Sons clan through the ages adorn the walls, sharing space with Irish memorabilia that feels authentic rather than staged. The snug near the entrance (a proper snug, mind you, not just a corner with a fancy name) is the kind of spot where you could easily lose an afternoon in conversation. The left-side bar, with its impressive lineup of taps, stands ready to serve everything from a perfectly poured Guinness to craft selections from London's best breweries. Upstairs, a bright and airy room leads to what might be one of Vauxhall's best-kept secrets - a rooftop terrace perfect for those rare sunny London days.

The real magic happens when you settle in with both a pint and a plate. The Guinness here is served with the kind of reverence you'd expect from a proper Irish establishment - allowing the proper time for the perfect settle, resulting in that iconic creamy head. But then you order the Pad Thai, and suddenly you're experiencing something entirely unique in London's pub scene. The kitchen doesn't just produce "pub Thai" - this is the real deal, with each dish packing authentic flavors that would make Bangkok proud.

During weekday afternoons, the pub maintains a gentle hum of activity - local workers stopping in for lunch, regulars settling into their favorite spots, and curious tourists who've ventured just far enough off the beaten path to find something special. Come Friday and Saturday nights, though, Mc & Sons transforms into something else entirely. Live Irish music fills the air, creating an atmosphere that's both electric and intimate. And here's an insider tip: they do lock-ins Thursday through Saturday, but you'll need to arrive before midnight to join the fun that continues until 2am.

The price point sits comfortably in the middle range for London pubs - you're not going to wince at the bill, but you're getting quality that justifies every penny. A pint of Guinness might set you back £6.90, while Thai mains hover around the £15 mark. Given the quality of both the drinks and the food, it's remarkably reasonable for Zone 1 London.

The staff, led by characters like the memorable Cambridge, treat everyone like they're part of the extended Mc & Sons family. They're quick with recommendations, generous with stories about the pub's history, and seem genuinely invested in ensuring everyone has a proper good time. Dog owners, take note - your four-legged friends are more than welcome here, adding to the pub's community feel.

Just two minutes from Vauxhall station, Mc & Sons proves that sometimes the best traditions are the ones we create ourselves. Where else in London can you wash down perfectly spiced green curry with a pristine pint of Guinness? This isn't just another London pub with a kitchen - it's a testament to how wonderful things can be when cultures collide in just the right way.

If you're looking for a pub that offers something genuinely different while maintaining all the comforts of a traditional Irish establishment, make your way to Mc & Sons in Vauxhall. Come for the Guinness, stay for the Thai food, and leave with a new favorite spot in London. Just remember to arrive before midnight if you're planning on joining one of those legendary lock-ins - some traditions, after all, are worth preserving.